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caused previous pneumonia outbreaks, but the organism’s slow growth and
special growth requirements prevented earlier discovery.
More than likely, you have heard about the outbreak of pneumonia that
caused 34 deaths at a
1976
American Legion convention in Philadelphia.
It might just be an interesting fact, unless you serve the water treatment
industry and know that Legionnaire’s disease is contracted by an estimated
10,000 to 50,000 people in the USA alone. (Source:
/
legionnairesdisease)
This happens because water sources that provide optimal conditions
for growth of the organisms are everywhere. They include: cooling towers,
evaporative condensers, and fluid coolers that use evaporation to reject
heat; domestic hot-water systems, humidifiers and decorative fountains
that create a water spray. Furthermore, any vessel that maintains water at
temperatures favorable to growth; such as spas and whirlpools; and other
sources including stagnant water in fire sprinkler systems and warm water
for eye washes and safety showers are at risk. (Source: OSHA Technical
Manual- Section III: Chapter 7)
